Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund and Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu announced plans for a new county jail to open by July 4, 2028, during the State of the City and County address. Both officials highlighted budget deficits prompting a reduction in city services while also discussing initiatives to revitalize downtown Bellingham.
Ferndale, WA, appointed Matt Huffman as the new Chief of Police, succeeding Kevin Turner. Huffman, a retired lieutenant with 26 years at the Ferndale Police Department, previously served as interim chief and emphasized the dedication of his department's staff in his statement.
A 34-year-old man died after leading law enforcement on a pursuit that began with a stolen motorcycle in Skagit County. The chase ended at Cain Lake, where the suspect fired at officers before being shot and later died from his injuries. No officers were injured during the incident.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed a law increasing the Discover Pass fee from $30 to $45, effective October 1, 2025. This marks the first price hike since the pass's introduction in 2011. The law also allows the Lifetime Veterans’ Disability Pass to serve as a substitute for the Discover Pass but removes the exemption for reservation fees for veterans.
Trader Joe’s will open its second store in Bellingham on May 29 at 8 a.m. The new location at 4255 Meridian Street will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7:55 a.m. with music and giveaways.
The Seattle Mariners swept the San Diego Padres and lead the AL West by 2.5 games as they face the Chicago White Sox today. Meanwhile, the Seattle Storm lost their WNBA opener to the Phoenix Mercury, while the Sounders drew with the Timbers and the Reign secured a victory against Racing Louisville.
Thousands will attend the Ski to Sea relay race in Whatcom County this Sunday, featuring teams racing from Mt. Baker to Fairhaven. Birch Equipment aims for a fourth consecutive victory, while WTA provides extra bus service to accommodate the expected crowds.
Nurses at PeaceHealth in Bellingham have reached a tentative agreement for a new contract lasting until 2028, featuring a $4.25 hourly raise and approximately 3% wage increases over the next two years. The Washington State Nurses Association reports this is the highest wage increase in the bargaining unit's history. Nurses will vote on the contract starting May 22.
Every May 18, residents recall the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, which killed 57 people and caused over $1 billion in damages. Experts warn that the Cascade Range volcanoes, including Mount Baker, are overdue for another eruption and urge the community to prepare emergency plans.
The Bureau of Land Management announced fire restrictions on public lands in Washington and Oregon, effective Thursday. The restrictions ban fireworks, exploding targets, and other incendiary devices to combat rising human-caused fires. Violators face fines up to $100,000 and potential prison time.